Jack had no time to reply, but the situation was plain to both. The horsemen were a portion of El Capitan's followers, and were on their way to attack the don. Could they stand idle there and see Harrie taken to some fate they could not understand? Ronie's impetuous temperament would not permit it. He believed a sudden attack, a few shots, and the unsuspecting enemy could be routed, and their friend rescued. Jack must have been revolving the same daring scheme in his mind, for at this critical moment he nudged Ronie, whispering:
"Ready when you say the word, sergeant."
Our hero spoke hastily to Riva and his companion, who quickly comprehended what was wanted of them. Then the clear command of the young sergeant broke the stillness of the lonely scene:
"Ready, men, fire!"
In the twinkling of an eye the flashes of the Mausers lightened the night, and three of the leading riders reeled in their seats, while sudden commotion took place among the others.
"Forward—charge!" thundered Ronie, setting the example by dashing furiously from his covert. "Look sharp, Harrie; we are here to save you."
The animal bestridden by the young engineer began to snort and plunge excitedly, but Ronie was soon at its bit. His comrades were as swiftly charging upon the surprised insurgents, who, no doubt thinking they had been attacked by superior numbers, broke and retreated in wild disorder.
"Give them a parting shot, lads!" cried Jack, who, in his adventurous career had led more than one regiment upon an enemy.
The Mausers spoke right merrily, the reports mingling with the yells of the discomfited rebels, who fled down the road as fast as they could make their steeds go.
In the midst of this rout and confusion Ronie freed Harrie, but he had barely accomplished this before the thunder of horses' hoofs down the road suddenly increased in volume, and loud shouts reached their ears. The clatter of retreating horses abruptly stopped, and it was apparent to the scouts that the insurgents had come to a stand.